Researchers studying the impact of climate change on the Arctic have some of the largest carbon footprints, it has been claimed.Scientists studying environmental issues at the pole have a carbon footprint DOUBLE the average - meaning they are responsible for producing twice as much carbon dioxide.
This is because they travel long distances using air travel and use devices like icebreakers and snowmobiles, all of which produce large amounts of carbon.
Experts from the University of Calgary now argue those studying climate change need to to consider ways to reduce their own carbon footprints.
You can now expect to hear climate change deniers using the words 'pot' kettle' and 'black' a lot more often.
Researcher Ryan Brook said: "The importance of the research is not at question here. It is vital to our understanding of and adapting to climate change. But we need to think about better approaches.
"This is an issue for all scientists, though polar researchers often travel particularly long distances using commercial air travel.
"We also rely extensively on small aircraft, icebreakers, and snowmobiles, all of which produce large amounts of carbon. We know that carbon release by human activity is a key contributor to climate change.
"It's important to critically evaluate how we can reduce our footprint from research activities."
Link:
University of Calgary
